What you need to open a Chase account

You can open a Chase checking or savings account online, by phone, or in person at a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes online. You will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your Social Security number, and an initial deposit—usually $25 for savings accounts, though some checking accounts have no minimum.

Chase offers different account types with different requirements. A basic Chase Total Checking account has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a $500 minimum balance. Chase Savings has a $25 minimum opening deposit. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), though you will need to visit a branch in person.

You will also need a current mailing address and a phone number. If you are opening online, Chase will verify your identity using information from credit bureaus and public records. If verification fails, you can complete the process at a branch instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit of at least $25 to open most Chase accounts online.
  • Online account opening takes about 10 minutes and you can start using your account the same day for some transactions.
  • Chase Total Checking has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a $500 minimum balance.
  • If online verification fails, you can complete the process at a Chase branch with your ID and initial deposit.

Opening an account online

Go to chase.com and click "Open an Account" or "Sign Up." Choose the account type you want—checking, savings, or money market. Enter your personal information: name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and Social Security number. Chase will ask whether you want paperless statements and if you want to set up direct deposit right away.

Next, Chase verifies your identity using the information you provided. This usually takes a few minutes. If you pass verification, you will see a confirmation screen with your new account number. You can then set up online banking and choose a username and password. Your debit card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account number to set up direct deposit or transfers immediately.

If verification fails, Chase will tell you why—usually because the information does not match what is on file with credit bureaus. You can try again with different information, or you can go to a branch to complete the process in person. Bring your ID, Social Security card or number, and your initial deposit.

Opening an account at a Chase branch

Find your nearest Chase branch on chase.com or by searching "Chase near me." Bring your valid ID, Social Security number (or ITIN), and your initial deposit. You can bring cash, a check, or a debit card to fund the account. A banker will walk you through the account options and help you choose the right one for your needs.

The banker will enter your information into the system, verify your identity in person, and set up your account on the spot. You will receive a temporary debit card at the branch or a permanent one by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can start using your account for transfers and bill pay the same day, even before your debit card arrives.

Opening at a branch is useful if you failed online verification, do not have a Social Security number (you can use an ITIN), or prefer to speak with someone. There is no fee to open an account at a branch, and the process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.

Setting up direct deposit and online banking

Direct deposit is the fastest way to waive monthly fees on Chase Total Checking. You can set it up during account opening or later through your Chase online banking portal. You will need your employer's routing number and your new Chase account number. Your employer's payroll department can usually set this up in one business day, though it may take one or two pay cycles for the first deposit to appear.

Once your account is open, log into chase.com with your username and password to access online banking. You can view your balance, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks using mobile check deposit. You can also set up alerts for low balances or large transactions. Download the Chase mobile app from the App Store or Google Play to manage your account from your phone.

What happens after you open your account

Your debit card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. When it arrives, call the number on the back to activate it before you use it. You can start using your account for online transfers, bill pay, and direct deposit before the card arrives—you do not have to wait.

Chase will send you a welcome packet by mail with your account number, routing number, and information about your account type and fees. Keep this packet because you will need the routing number to set up direct deposit or to receive wire transfers. You can also find your routing number in the Chase app or by logging into online banking.

If you want to add another person to your account (a joint account holder), you can do this at a branch or by calling Chase. The other person will need to provide their ID and Social Security number. Joint account holders have equal access to the money and both are responsible for any overdrafts or fees.

Monthly fees and how to avoid them

Chase Total Checking has a $12 monthly service fee, but it is waived if you set up direct deposit, maintain a $500 minimum balance, or keep an average daily balance of $500 or more. Chase Savings has a $5 monthly fee, waived if you maintain a $300 minimum balance or have a linked Chase checking account with direct deposit.

If you do not meet the fee waiver requirements, you will be charged the monthly fee on the last day of each month. You can avoid fees by setting up direct deposit (the easiest option) or by keeping the minimum balance. If you fall below the minimum, you will be charged the fee that month, but you can bring your balance back up the next month to avoid future fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security number?

Yes, you can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. However, you must open the account in person at a Chase branch. Bring your ITIN, a valid ID, and your initial deposit. Online account opening requires a Social Security number.

How long does it take to access my money after I open an account?

You can use your account for transfers and bill pay the same day you open it. Your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you deposit a check using mobile check deposit, it usually clears within one business day for amounts under $200, and two business days for larger amounts.

What is the minimum opening deposit?

Most Chase savings accounts require a $25 minimum opening deposit. Chase Total Checking has no minimum opening deposit, but you need to set up direct deposit or maintain a $500 balance to avoid the $12 monthly fee. Some specialty accounts have higher minimums.

Can I open a joint account online?

You can open a joint account online if both account holders are present and can verify their identity. If you want to add a joint holder after opening, you must visit a branch or call Chase. The other person will need to provide their ID and Social Security number.

What if my online verification fails?

If Chase cannot verify your identity online, you will be told why. You can try again with different information, or go to a Chase branch with your ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit to complete the process in person. Branch staff can open your account on the spot.